Chicago Sky’s 2025 WNBA Draft: Trade Strategies and Top Prospects to Watch
The Chicago Sky holds the No. 3 pick in the upcoming WNBA Draft. General manager Jeff Pagliocca is focused on improving the team’s shooting capabilities. The top prospects in the draft include Notre Dame guard Olivia Miles, USC forward Kiki Iriafen, and UConn shooting guard Azzi Fudd.
Pagliocca indicated that the Sky requires players who can shoot, particularly wings, rather than more big players. The team already has enough frontcourt strength with Angel Reese, Kamilla Cardoso, and Elizabeth Williams.
Miles stands out as a potential pick but has questions surrounding her three-point shooting. However, she excels as a playmaker, similar to elite point guards like Courtney Vandersloot and Chelsea Gray. If Pagliocca keeps the No. 3 pick, he may develop Miles as the team’s future floor general. The Sky also have the No. 10 pick from a trade with the Sun.
What are the key factors influencing the Chicago Sky’s draft strategy this year?
Exclusive Interview with WNBA Specialist on the Chicago Sky’s Draft Strategy
Chicago, IL – As the Chicago Sky prepare for the upcoming WNBA Draft, all eyes are on General Manager Jeff Pagliocca and his strategy to enhance the team’s shooting capabilities. To gain insights into the Sky’s approach, we sat down with WNBA expert and analyst, Dr. Lisa Thompson.
News Directory 3: Dr. Thompson, with the Sky holding the No. 3 pick, what are your thoughts on their focus on improving shooting, especially given the current roster?
Dr. Lisa Thompson: The emphasis on shooting is crucial for the Sky. With established frontcourt players like Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso, Pagliocca recognizes the need for wings who can shoot effectively. This kind of strategic focus on position is about creating balance on the floor and maximizing offensive efficiency.
News Directory 3: The top prospects include Olivia Miles, Kiki Iriafen, and Azzi Fudd. What stands out about these players in relation to the Sky’s needs?
Dr. Lisa Thompson: Each player brings unique skills. Olivia Miles is a standout playmaker, reminiscent of elite point guards like Courtney Vandersloot. While her three-point shooting is under scrutiny, her vision and ability to create opportunities could be vital for Chicago’s offense. Kiki Iriafen is an emerging talent who can stretch the floor, and Azzi Fudd is an exceptional shooter and a natural scorer — she would directly address the shooting needs Pagliocca highlighted.
News Directory 3: Would you advocate for the Sky to select Miles given the current questions about her shooting?
Dr. Lisa Thompson: It depends on Pagliocca’s long-term vision. If he believes he can develop her shooting game, she could become a cornerstone for the future. With the right coaching, her playmaking ability could outweigh concerns about her three-point shooting, especially if she’s paired with other skilled shooters.
News Directory 3: There’s speculation about the possibility of trading the No. 3 pick. What are your thoughts on that?
Dr. Lisa Thompson: Trading the pick for a proven shooter could be a game-changer. Rae Burrell, for example, has shown flashes of brilliance with the Sparks, but the injury history makes her a gamble. Jewell Loyd is an exciting option, though acquiring her could be challenging. Ultimately, it really comes down to how Pagliocca evaluates immediate versus long-term needs.
News Directory 3: what do you think Pagliocca should prioritize—drafting a prospect or executing a trade?
Dr. Lisa Thompson: It’s a balancing act. If the right trade materializes, it could provide an instant upgrade. However, drafting a player like Miles or Fudd could set the foundation for future success. I’d recommend evaluating all options thoroughly, but if potential shooters are on the board, he should seriously consider sticking to the draft.
News Directory 3: Thank you, Dr. Thompson, for your insights on the Chicago Sky’s upcoming strategy. It’ll be interesting to see how this unfolds.
As the WNBA Draft approaches, the decisions made by Jeff Pagliocca and the Chicago Sky will undoubtedly shape the future of the franchise, aiming for an increased shooting capability to complement their strong frontcourt presence.
Pagliocca may consider trading the No. 3 pick for a proven shooter. One option is Rae Burrell from the Sparks, who has shown potential despite limited statistics due to a previous knee injury. Another consideration could be Storm guard Jewell Loyd, though a trade for her is less likely.
Ultimately, whether through the draft or trades, Pagliocca’s aim is to find a shooter to enhance the Sky’s performance for the upcoming season.